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Choosing the right Trailer to haul a car boils down to understanding your vehicle's size and weight, knowing your towing vehicle's capabilities, and choosing between open and enclosed car haulers.
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What Size Trailer Do I Need To Haul A Car If you're planning to transport a vehicle, whether it's for relocation, sale, or a classic car show, one critical question you need to ask is: What size trailer do I need to haul a car? The answer depends on various factors such as the size and type of the vehicle, the kind of Trailer, and your towing vehicle's capabilities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Understanding Car Size and Weight First Before you choose a trailer, it's essential to understand the dimensions and weight of your car. Most standard sedans are around 14 to 16 feet long, while trucks and SUVs can range up to 20 feet. The average vehicle width is around 6 to 6.5 feet. Equally important is the weight of the vehicle. A small car may weigh around 2,800 pounds, while a large SUV or truck can weigh over 6,000 pounds. Knowing the size and weight of the vehicle will help determine the right trailer dimensions and load capacity. Open vs. Enclosed Car Haulers When it comes to hauling cars, you typically have two options: open car haulers and enclosed car haulers. Each comes with its own set of pros and cons. Open Car Haulers Open car haulers are the more affordable and lightweight option. These are flatbed trailers that expose the car to the elements. They are suitable for short distances or hauling less valuable vehicles. Advantages: ● Lightweight and easier to tow. ● Cost-effective. ● Easier to load and unload. Disadvantages: ● No protection from weather or road debris. ● Increased risk of damage during transit. Enclosed Car Haulers Enclosed car haulers are fully enclosed trailers that protect the car from weather, theft, and road debris. These are ideal for high-value vehicles like sports cars, luxury vehicles, and collector cars. Advantages: ● Full protection for the vehicle. ● Improved security. ● Better for long-distance or all-weather travel. Disadvantages: ● Heavier and require a more powerful towing vehicle. ● More expensive than open trailers. Brands like RMZ Trailers specialize in enclosed haulers that are built for durability and style, offering various sizes that suit different vehicle types. Ideal Trailer Sizes for Hauling a Car
So, what size trailer do you really need to haul a car? While the answer may vary depending on the specific vehicle, here are the most commonly recommended sizes: 16-Foot Trailer A 16-foot open trailer is usually sufficient for most standard sedans or compact SUVs. It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, but it may not accommodate longer or wider vehicles. 18-Foot Trailer This size provides a bit more flexibility, allowing you to haul mid-size SUVs and trucks comfortably. It's a good middle-ground choice for most people. 20-Foot Enclosed Car Hauler A 20-foot enclosed car hauler is the gold standard for safely transporting a single car. It provides enough space for most vehicles while also offering ample room for tie-downs, ramps, and equipment. 24-Foot Enclosed Car Hauler This is ideal if you're transporting a larger truck or want extra space for tools, equipment, or multiple smaller vehicles. RMZ Trailers often provides this size for users with extra transport needs. Choosing a trailer that's too small can be dangerous and illegal if it exceeds weight limits. On the other hand, a trailer that's too large may be unnecessary and harder to tow. Make sure to match the trailer size with the car dimensions and your towing vehicle's capacity. Why Trailer Weight Ratings Matter When selecting a trailer, one of the most important specifications is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This rating indicates the maximum weight the Trailer can safely handle, including the weight of the Trailer itself and the load. To determine if a trailer is right for your car: ● Subtract the Trailer's empty weight from the GVWR. The result is the maximum car weight it can carry. ● Ensure your car's weight is less than this payload. ● Make sure your towing vehicle can also handle the total weight of the Trailer plus the car. If you're hauling heavier vehicles like trucks or SUVs, look for car haulers with tandem axles and higher weight capacities. Brakes, Axles, and Safety Features to Consider A reliable car hauler isn't just about size—it's also about safety features. Make sure your Trailer includes: ● Electric or surge brakes for safe stopping. ● Dual axles to better distribute the load and improve towing stability. ● Tie-down points to secure the vehicle. ● Ramps or tilt beds for easy loading and unloading. ● Lighting that complies with road safety regulations. Most RMZ Trailers come equipped with these features, particularly their enclosed car haulers, making them an excellent choice for professionals and casual users alike. Towing Vehicle Requirements Hauling a car is a heavy-duty task that requires a towing vehicle with enough power and stability. Trucks and large SUVs are typically used for towing car haulers. Key specifications to look at include:
● Towing capacity (should exceed the weight of your car and Trailer combined). ● Brake controller compatibility. ● Hitch rating and class. ● Transmission and engine strength, especially for long hauls or mountainous terrain. If you're unsure, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a professional to verify whether your current vehicle is up to the task. Why Choose RMZ Trailers? If you're looking for reliable and well-built enclosed car haulers, RMZ Trailers stands out as a top choice. They offer a wide range of car hauler sizes—from 16 feet to 24 feet—with a reputation for durability and customization. Whether you're an auto dealer, a car enthusiast, or a relocation service provider, RMZ offers trailers designed to fit your exact needs. Their enclosed models not only offer protection but also have features like built-in tie-downs, ventilation, reinforced frames, and weather-sealed doors—perfect for securely transporting high-value vehicles. Conclusion Choosing the right Trailer to haul a car boils down to understanding your vehicle's size and weight, knowing your towing vehicle's capabilities, and choosing between open and enclosed car haulers. If protection and durability are a priority, consider investing in a quality model like those offered by RMZ Trailers. The most commonly recommended size for a single vehicle is a 20-foot enclosed car hauler, which provides the best balance of space, security, and performance. Hauling a car doesn't have to be complicated—but it does require careful planning. Choose the right size, check your specs, and you'll be good to go. FAQs What is the standard size trailer for hauling a car? A 16 to 20-foot Trailer is standard for hauling a single car. Enclosed trailers usually come in sizes like 8.5' x 20', which is ideal for most cars. Can I use an open trailer to haul a car? Yes, open trailers can haul cars, especially for short distances or less valuable vehicles. However, they offer no protection from weather or road debris. Are enclosed car haulers better? Enclosed car haulers are better for valuable, luxury, or classic cars. They offer full protection and are ideal for long-distance or frequent transport. How much does a car hauler weigh? A typical car hauler trailer can weigh between 1,500 and 3,500 pounds, depending on its size and type. Always factor in the trailer weight when calculating towing capacity.
What size enclosed Trailer do I need for an SUV? For most SUVs, a 20-foot or 24-foot enclosed car hauler is recommended to ensure enough space and proper clearance during loading and transport.